In addition to my earlier TK's pick on this game, (see December 5th blog) let me add a few additional thoughts on tonight's game.  Since my earlier assessment of this game, I have had an opportunity to view Carolina Panthers players perspectives. 

   Even Panthers Wide Receiver Steve Smith spoke out, which is a rarity.  I can tell you, by watching Smith, he is primed for this game.  Speaking out was the first indication.  The second was his assessment of the Bucs secondary, in particular Ronde Barber.  While giving Ronde props, Smith said he will not spend much time watching flim on Barber, or for that matter, Phillip Buchanon.  Doesn't need to.  Each player knows the others tendencies to a T.  My guess is the Panthers are expecting the Bucs Cover2 defense to roll their safety over to Smith's side at all times.  That move will enable Mushid Muhammed more looks, and leaving the corner on his side in man-to-man coverage. 

    We also spent little time talking about DeAngelo Williams and the Panthers running attack.  Reason is, the Bucs defense will, as they have with every team this season, gear their strategy to stopping the run first anyway.  It's been quite successful.  Just check the recent stats against running backs like Adrian Peterson. 

    Panthers Quarterback Jake Delhomme speaks of the Bucs as if he would love to be apart of their organization.  Perhaps it humility speaking since those three interceptions he threw against TB earlier in the season.

   Listening to Panthers defensive back Ken Lucas, I get the distinct feeling they feel the Bucs only key to their offense is Jeff Garcia.  Don't be surprised, that with a pass rush Carolina is capable of, they will have a "shadow" on Garcia.  So, one of the keys for TB tonight is the running game.  Not so much Warrick Dunn as Cadillac Williams.  Caddy will be revisitng the very site over a year ago he injured his knee.  Listening to Caddy this week, I do not think he's even thinking about that place in time.  He, as is the rest of this Bucs team, is living in the moment.  That moment is tonight.

    Key #2- special teams.  Carolina has a very good special teams unit.  If they can keep Clifton Smith from crossing the 30 on kickoffs, and limit him to under 10 yards a pop on punts, they'll win.  Field position is so critical for this Bucs team.  They are not the explosive group that can run it down the field 80 yards. 

    My pick still stands from three days ago.  Check it out.  For more on this MNF matchup, tuned in to ABC Action News at 8pm.  Al Keck and I will bring you a 1/2 hour special leading to kickoff.  The game, by the way, will also be aired on ABC Action News.

    Tom Korun